While service to children and families is the purpose of Global Volunteers programs, working alongside local people is the best way to experience culture and traditions in your host country. Learn more about some of the customs, language and history that comes alive when serving for one, two or three weeks with Global Volunteers.
Nepal is a country rich in beauty, culture, and tradition from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to centuries-old temples, vibrant folk music, and food that tells the story of its people. It’s a place that has to be experienced to be understood. And in September 2026, Global Volunteers is offering a rare chance to experience it in one […]
As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people across the globe celebrate the arrival of a new year with customs passed through generations. While champagne toasts and fireworks may be universal, the unique traditions that accompany this momentous transition reveal fascinating insights into different cultures. From running with suitcases in Peru to smashing pomegranates in Greece, let’s explore how five countries […]
The Holi festival, known as “Phagu Purnima” in Nepali, is named after the mythical demoness Holika, and is one of the most anticipated annual celebrations in Nepal. A three-day festival of color and joy, Holi is observed on the full moon day, which falls either late February or early March. If you’re fortunate enough to serve […]
Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is home to one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological discoveries—the Terracotta Warriors. These life-sized statues, part of the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, have captivated visitors for centuries with their detail and grandeur. However, beyond their awe-inspiring appearance lies a rich history steeped in legend […]
In Part Two of their blog post about their service program in Crete, Greece Volunteers Tom and Rondi Olson talk about Cretan history, hospitality, cuisine and free-time activities available to volunteers serving in Greece! Read Part One. Discovering Crete’s “Backstory.” We came to Crete without a mental picture, and really had no idea what to […]
Volunteering abroad with Global Volunteers guarantees that you will assist children and families in partner communities while immersing yourself in diverse cultures within some of the world’s most captivating locations. The Cook Islands is one of our service programs whose people and landscapes will captivate you. These free-time options on the main island of Rarotonga […]
We always strive to provide secure, comfortable lodging in all partner communities; a bonus is sometimes, the building where we stay also is culturally and historically significant to the area. Such is the case in Castelvetrano, Sicily, where volunteers are lodged in two guesthouses nestled in the historic city center; the Palazzo al Carmine and […]
Christmas (Xristouyenna- Christouyenna), meaning “the birth of Christ,” is one of the most important celebrations within the Greek Orthodox church. Traditions vary depending on which region or Island one is from. Here are a few of the popular traditions celebrated in Greece as reported by Greece Country Manager Sam Pinakoulaki: Kalikantzari During the 12-day period […]
Daniel Salazar, former Peru Country Manager, writes about three unusual things Peruvians do during Christmas. This is #1: Hot Chocolate & During Christmas. #1. Hot Chocolate During Christmas Another Christmas tradition in Peru is drinking hot chocolate. Hot chocolate in Peru is made from cacao melted with milk and sometimes mixed with coffee and spices. Of course, […]
Daniel Salazar, former Peru Country Manager, offers the top three traditions in Peru on Christmas. This is #2: Panettone on Christmas. #2. Peruvians love their Panettone on Christmas: For some reason, Peruvians love to eat certain foods during particular times of the year or holidays. We will talk about that later. All you need to know […]